2015 marks the 40th anniversary of the Learning Resource Center of Polk County, Inc. (LRC). The history of Polk County’s premier provider of customized academic opportunities dates back to 1975 when the Junior League of Greater Lakeland, Inc. founded the Learning Disabilities Resource Center with the goal of providing consulting services for parents and personalized education programs to students with learning disabilities.
 
While LRC stills serves students with learning disabilities, programs for the learning disabled grew in the public school system, so the organization expanded its program offerings and service locations reflecting the 1977 name change that still exists today.
 
Throughout 40 years of service, LRC has received numerous accolades including the Walt Disney World Community Service Award for Education, Polk County Schools’ School-to-Work Silver Zone, Community Foundation of Greater Lakeland’s John P. “Jack” Grady Philanthropic Award, United Way of Central Florida Pacesetter, and Disney Grants award.
 
Today, the AdvancED accredited organization that began as a small volunteer group, employs more than 600 certified teachers who provide countywide services to over 4,000 students ages five through adult under the direction of Executive Director Pamela Craven, Ph.D.
 
The organization caters to students of all ages and academic levels through One-to-One Tutoring, test preparation courses, College Success Planning, Study Habits of Success Students, Camp READY!, and Super Summer Success as well as through collaborations with Polk County School Board, Florida Baptist Children’s Home, Public Education Partnership of Winter Haven, Inc., Anchor House Ministries, Galindo Tennis International Academy, Polk State College, and Florida Southern College among others.
 
LRC has seen countless learning gains and achievement over the past forty years and looks forward to continue providing students throughout Polk County the best assistance, support, and strategies for each student’s own success.